ZeniMax Online Studios and Bethesda Softworks have announced they are now accepting signups for players to take part in the beta of their next title,The Elder Scrolls Online.

Currently scheduled for a release on PC and Mac this year, gamers can go over to the game’s official website at ElderScrollsOnline.com and fill out an application. Not everyone will be selected as spaces are limited and only a lucky few will be allowed a chance to play the beta. Those selected will be sent information on when play-testing begins and important details.

[adsense250itp]“We’re really excited to get the game into players’ hands,” said Matt Firor, the president of ZeniMax Online and game director of The Elder Scrolls Online. “We receive invaluable feedback through the beta process, and that helps us ensure that the game will be one of the best online gaming experiences ever offered — one worthy of The Elder Scrolls franchise.”

The Elder Scrolls Online will be the first massively multiplayer role-playing video game in The Elder Scrolls franchise. It will take place between the events of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Players can join one of three factions that vile for control of the kingdom of Tamriel. They will also fight against the Daedric prince Molag Bal, who previously played a minor role in one of Skyrim’s many quests. Players can roam around the world of Tamriel with their created characters, developing their own unique playing styles while partaking in quests, fighting battles and exploring an expansive world that Bethesda has promised to enlarge with future expansions.

The Elder Scrolls Online

The game will make use of ZeniMax Online’s innovative Megaserver technology that enables players to interact in one huge connected world. A built in social network allows players to keep an eye on the exploits of their friends. The Megaserver technology will create even more convenience and avoid having to go through the hassles of shard selection. Bethesda has said these features will make The Elder Scrolls “one of the most socially enabled games ever created.”

For more on The Elder Scrolls Online, check out Gaming Illustrated’s preview of the game here. Also, check out the changing trends in MMOs and how it will affect the game here.

Jonathan Anson

Jonathan has been a lover of video games since his father brought home a Windows 95 computer. When he's not doing that he indulges in his other passion: writing.
Jonathan holds an AA degree in Journalism from Saddleback College in Southern California.